Q. I'm 17 years old and still covered in zits. My facial cleanser doesn't seem to work. Any suggestions?A. Acne is the most common of all skin diseases and experienced by approximately 75% of adolescents. It can range from a few scattered pimples to disfiguring and scar-inducing lumps. As for treatment, it depends on how serious your acne is. First off, you should stop using any cosmetics, oils or creams on your face that are " acnegenic ". The next best step is trying some benzoyl peroxide (available over the counter.). It comes in a whole host of concentrations and forms (cream, lotion, gel) but the best idea is to start low and go slow. This is usually enough to clear up existing pimples and help prevent new ones. Side effects are redness and drying of the area, which you have to put up with for a while. And remember, this is not an overnight fix. It may take days to weeks.
If this isn't enough, you might benefit from some local antibiotic treatment. You'll need to see your family doc about that because you'd need a prescription. More severe acne often requires more severe measures, including antibiotic pills and sometimes retinoic acid (accutane). Now you're getting into heavy-duty treatments with strict guidelines and the need for good follow-up by your doctor.
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